Langimage
English

haberdasher

|hab-er-dash-er|

C1

🇺🇸

/ˈhæbərˌdæʃər/

🇬🇧

/ˈhæbədæʃə/

seller of small wares

Etymology
Etymology Information

'haberdasher' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'haberdassher,' where 'haberdash' meant 'small wares.'

Historical Evolution

'haberdassher' transformed into the modern English word 'haberdasher' through Middle English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'seller of small wares,' but over time it evolved to include sellers of men's clothing and accessories.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a person who sells small articles for sewing, such as buttons, ribbons, zippers, and other notions.

The haberdasher had a wide selection of buttons and threads.

Synonyms

Noun 2

in British English, a dealer in men's clothing and accessories.

He went to the haberdasher to buy a new tie for the wedding.

Synonyms

Last updated: 2025/04/23 05:04